Youth-Adult Partnership to elevate youth voices in public health

SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Health is launching the Youth-Adult Partnership, a new initiative bringing together youth and adults from across the state to help shape public health programs. 
 
The Youth-Adult Partnership (YAP), which will culminate in a Youth Empowerment Action (YEA) Summit early in 2026, is designed to elevate youth voices and support public health strategies that reflect the needs and experiences of young people in New Mexico. 
 
"YAP is a paradigm shift in how we lead change,” said Tessa Medina-Lucero, adolescent health coordinator with the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH). “By valuing youth and adults as equal contributors, YAP redefines collaboration across generations to create community-driven solutions in health, leadership, and civic engagement."

NMDOH is recruiting up to 30 individuals to serve as inaugural members of the YAP Committee for the 2025–2026 school year. During their term, members will help plan the 2026 YEA Summit, where youth from across the state will convene to discuss public health issues.

Youth YAP members will receive a stipend for their contributions. All members will be trained in best practices for Youth-Adult Partnership and the Positive Youth Development approach to enhance youth resilience.

“Youth are experts in their own experience,” said Dr. Katherine Grill, a youth mental health expert tapped to lead the YAP in partnership with Medina-Lucero. “The YAP initiative will ensure youth voices are at the center of decisions that affect their health, education, and future.”

To apply to be part of the NMDOH Youth-Adult Partnership Committee, complete this short application form by September 1. Applicants must be residents of New Mexico and should apply as a team consisting of one adult (age 25+) and two youth (ages 14-24). Only one application per team is required.

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Colaboración entre jóvenes y adultos para dar voz a la juventud en la salud pública